Sleeping Dogs officially announced

Square Enix has formally lifted the lid on the rescued True Crime: Hong Kong, now named Sleeping Dogs.

The game's new title was leaked this morning by Canadian retailer Future Shop, along with accompanying artwork and a logo. The company also claimed it would be released on in August – Square's announcement only gives a vague "second half of 2012" window.

Sleeping Dogs is being developed by United Front Games, now in collaboration with Square Enix London Studios. It puts players in the role of undercover cop Wei Shen as they try to bring down the notorious Hong Kong Triads.

"From the moment you pick up the controller and experience the blend of driving, close combat and shooting you know you’re playing something fresh and a bit special,” said Lee Singleton, general manager of Square Enix London Studios.

“Sleeping Dogs has one of the best melee combat systems out there – it’s super brutal with devastating takedown moves, and when added to UFG’s proven heritage in driving games, a first class story and the vibrant backdrop of the Hong Kong underworld we get a fiery recipe with fun written all over it.”

United Front Games' executive producer Stephen Van Der Mescht added: “Working on Sleeping Dogs has been such a huge passion for the team at United Front Games and we’re really pleased to be working with Square Enix London Studios

"The extensive experience both our studios have in creating compelling openworld gameplay and rich and rewarding combat makes for a perfect partnership. Working together we can make sure that Sleeping Dogs is the most intense and immersive experience it can be.”

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